A great line up of events is scheduled over the four days including the annual Country Music Festival, Parkes Antique Motor Club's (PAMC) Annual Vintage Motorcycle Rally, a free band in Peak Hill, and two big school reunions with Parkes High School's 40 Year Reunion and Tullamore Central School's 125 Year Anniversary,

Parkes Shire Council's Events Development Officer, Chia Barlow said locals and visitors alike would have plenty to do throughout  the very busy weekend.

“With such a variety of entertainment planned, it's the perfect opportunity to get out and about and take part in some of the events the shire will be offering,” she said.

The annual 2PK Parkes Country Music Festival started yesterday with a host of events continuing through to Sunday.

“Many people will be enjoying the fun, competitions and quality entertainment that make the festival the highlight of the October long weekend, which it has been for 48 years,” Chia said.

“Big crowds are expected to attend the festival which includes the Central West Country Music Awards (trophies and prizemoney for all sections), a family muster and walk-up talent quest, busking competition, and the Festival Country Concert featuring special guest artists Angus Gill, Emily Markham, and the Wayne Ryder Band.”

This weekend is also the PAMC's 39th annual rally for vintage and classic motorcycles (made up until 1984).

It is on Saturday to Monday, and members of the public are invited to view the machines  on display at the Henry Parkes Centre from 9am to 1:30pm tomorrow.

Local and talented Aboriginal band Riff Raff are playing Saturday night at the Peak Hill Ex- Services Club and everyone is welcome including visitors - this is a free event kicking off at 7pm and rocking 'til late!

Also this year, there are two school reunions.

Parkes High School classes will be celebrating 40 years this weekend with an informal gathering tonight and a more formal dinner on Saturday night. 

Tullamore Central School will be holding its 125 Year Anniversary Reunion with many expected to return to Tullamore for the festivities. 

The Tullamore Reunion program kicks off this afternoon from 4pm at the Tullamore Bowling Club for a 'meet and greet' and social bowls. 

Then from 10am tomorrow, a day of activities is planned at the Tullamore Central School including morning tea, lunch, lowering of a new time capsule, school tours, fun events for kids and adults, memorabilia for sale and a paver fundraiser. 

In the evening a Cabaret Dance will take place in the Multipurpose Hall with entertainment by Kerry Ellen.

And if you're looking for something else for the kids to do, a reminder the Parkes Swimming Pool opened last Saturday.

While at the pool don't forget to grab some refreshments at the newly upgraded Poolside Café.

“Combined with Parkes Shire's key attractions such as 'The Dish', the Henry Parkes Centre and Peak Hill Open Cut Experience there will be plenty to see and do,” Chia said.

For a full list of events and activities on in Parkes Shire this weekend, call into the Parkes Visitor Information Centre which will be open all long weekend from 10am - 4pm or telephone 6862 6000.